My Favorite Albums by The Get Up Kids

 

So if you haven’t heard, The Get Up Kids have reunited… sort of.  They played a “secret” show last week in Kansas City and announced there will be additional dates in 2009.  Their set list during the show was Something to Write Home About in its entirety, with a mix of hits from their other albums for the encore.  The Get Up Kids were my favorite band as I grew up and so this news has made me super excited.  So here’s a list of my favorite full-length albums by The Get Up Kids:

 

4.  Guilt Show

This was The Get Up Kids’ final album before they broke up.  Released in March 2004, Guilt Show showed a more mature side of the band, but unfortunately it lacked their edge and strayed into a more traditional pop sound.  There are few stand-out tracks on the album such as “The One Your Want,” “Martyr Me,” and “How Long is Too Long” but overall it didn’t fully satisfy me as a TGUK fan.

 

3.  Four Minute Mile

This was The Get Up Kids’ debut full-length album off of Doghouse Records, and boy was it awesome.  The album was recorded in only two days (doesn’t it show) but for what it lacks in crisp and quality sound it makes up in superb content and a refreshing style. 

Some of my favorite tracks off of Four Minute Mile include:  “Coming Clean,” “Don’t Hate Me,” “Better Half,” and “No Love.”  These are true TGUK classics… I just wished they could’ve re-recorded the album to better quality.

 

2.  On a Wire

Released in May 2002, this album reinvented the sound for The Get Up Kids, taking a slower, deeper, and more meaningful direction.  This is the album that was said to have lessened The Get Up Kids’ popularity, but I don’t see why.  They didn’t follow Something to Write Home About’s formula exactly, but I was 100% content with this new style.

On a Wire slowed down TGUK’s pace from their first two albums and that’s why I think so many fans were upset.  But taking their music to a softer, more acoustic side for tracks like “Overdue,” “Campfire Kansas,” and “Hannah Hold On” proved TGUK was more than just a power-chord emo band.  And then they tapped into the psychadelic sounds in “Let the Reigns Go Loose” and “Walking on a Wire” that surely gave some emo kids headaches.  But overall, I felt On a Wire was an absolute solid effort and their second best album.

 

1.  Something to Write Home About

This was a no-brainer.  After The Get Up Kids left Doghouse Records they recorded and released the first album ever on Vagrant Records in September 1999.  This album single-handedly changed Vagrant Records into one of the best independent record labels in the country.

Something to Write Home About has been termed as an “emo” album, and although it is, it’s also a lot more.  Definitely TGUK’s most popular album, there is really not one bad song.  This is one of the only albums I can use the phrase it is “all killer and no filler.”  The album starts off relentless with “Holiday” and “Action & Action” and then slows down for “Valentine” and “Out of Reach.”  There aren’t enough good things I can say about this album.  On top of The Get Up Kids being one of my favorite bands, Something to Write Home About is definitely up their on the best albums I’ve ever heard list.  Maybe I’ll write that list one day.

Me vs. The Spread, College Edition

• Notre Dame (-4) at Navy: All of the recent problems have been well documented and Charlie Weiss will now be calling the plays on offense.  And the loss to Navy last year at South Bend is still fresh in everyone’s mind which makes this game imperative for Weiss and his future.  I think the Irish will be motivated by what is being said about them and they still have superior talent to the Midshipmen.  Only four point favorites?  They should cover that comfortably.  Navy will not be able to cover Michael Floyd.  Notre Dame 34, Navy 20.
• Texas (-13) at Kansas: Kansas has struggled this year but their offense is still respected with Todd Reesing at the helm.  However, their defense will not be able to get off the field in this one.  Jordan Shipley will have another big day both receiving and on kick returns.  Kansas keeps it competitive early but eventually Texas stretches it out to cover.  Texas 45, Kansas 27.
• BYU (-4) at Air Force: BYU is ranked and has a very impressive offense that is entertaining to watch.  However, they will have their hands full trying to stop the running game of Air Force.  Air Force will be able to keep it close if they run the ball and control the clock.  However, BYU will eventually pull this one out.  QB Max Hall would be a Hesiman candidate if he got more exposure.  Trust the advantage at QB to make a difference in the game.  BYU 30, Air Force 23.
• Oregon State (-3) vs. Cal: Sure we all know about USC but Oregon State still controls their own destiny in terms of a Pac 10 title.  Two factors to remember are that Mike Riley is one of the smarter coaches around, and Corvallis can be a rather difficult place for rivals to come in and play (Just ask USC).  Freshman RB Jacquizz Rodgers is in the top 10 in rushing in the nation and the Beavers will rely on him to get a huge conference win at home.  Oregon State 30, Cal 20.

Last Week: 2-2

Season: 13-11

The Buzz

Just three new releases this week which means less work for me.  Let’s get to it.

 

• Quantum of Solace: Yes here comes the second chapter of Daniel Craig’s turn as James Bond.  Frankly I enjoyed Pierce Brosnan as Bond more but that’s probably just me.  Casino Royale was close to unwatchable and I didn’t even pay attention to what happened in the end.  I never could understand how a Bond movie could be so boring.  But that’s not Daniel Craig’s fault.  The trailer for Quantum looks so-so but I’m not eager at all for this one.  This one is for Bond fanboys only.  
• Slumdog Millionaire: I am labeling this film as the new release that people should be seeing this weekend.  Just go watch the trailer and there is no denying the potential that is there for this movie.  The film has already had great success in festivals and has been well received by critics such as Roger Ebert.  It seems like terrific and unique idea for a story.  It could be the feel good movie of the year.
• Christmas Tale: Here is a limited release dramedy about a dysfunctional family and the holiday reunion with the brother who had been banished from the family.  Go and watch the trailer because after I did I was rather intrigued.  It made the film seem very sharp and quite funny.  Expect a mix of heavy drama and joyful comedy here.  If that makes sense.

 

Box Office Top 10 Projections:

 

1. Quantum of Solace – $55 million
2. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa – $42 million
3. Role Models – $11 million
4. Changeling – $6 million
5. High School Musical 3 – $5 million
6. Zack and Miri Make a Porno – $4 million
7. The Secret Life of Bees – $3 million
8. Soul Men – $3 million
9. Saw V – $2 million
10. Eagle Eye – $2 million

 

List: Who I’m Listening To

 

Three Artists Currently on Repeat:

 

1.  Brad Paisley – I’m in my Country music mood just in time for the 42nd Annual CMA Awards tomorrow.  “Start a Band” featuring Keith Urban is currently my jam.
 

2.  The Get Up Kids – My favorite band growing up through high school and most of college until they broke up in 2005.  But now there are rumors that the Kids are planning a reunion tour next spring.  Can it be true?!
 

3.  Bright Eyes – It’s almost impossible to not listen to Conor Oberst for an extended period of time.  The man of many shapes and colors can enhance any mood you encounter.

NFL Week 10: Five Lists of Five

Top Five Teams in My Power Rankings:

1. Tennessee Titans – 9-0 and counting.  Give credit to the job that offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger is doing.  He wasn’t stubborn when the running game wasn’t working.  People continue to underestimate an offense that is in the top ten in points scored.
2. New York Giants – The way they ran the ball against the Eagles was quite impressive as their offensive line continues to wear opponents down.  It can be tough to stop them on the ground because you have to leave a safety over the top of Plaxico Burress which prevents you from bringing eight men into the box.  Their game with Baltimore this weekend will be very physical.
3. Carolina Panthers – Their offense was suspect to say the least yesterday but DeAngelo Williams has continued to improve as the year has gone on.  They sit pretty at 7-2 and have clearly established themselves as the second best team in the NFC right now.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers – Let’s not overreact to the loss because that was a game where Ben Roethlisberger just gave the game away with his interceptions.  They still have the league’s best defense and they will be there at the end.  They need to commit to the running game more and get Willie Parker healthy.
5. Washington Redskins – The big concern this week is that Clinton Portis is questionable for this weekend’s game against the Cowboys.  He is the one player they cannot afford to lose because their depth at that position is poor.  If they lose this week the division title hopes could be gone.

Bottom Five Teams in My Power Rankings:

1. Detroit Lions – I like how a lot of “experts” thought they had a shot at beating Jacksonville with Daunte Culpepper spending less than a week with the team.  Other than Calvin Johnson and Kevin Smith there isn’t a lot to like here.  
2. Kansas City Chiefs – They deserve credit for playing very well three weeks in a row despite losing all three.  The organization believes in Tyler Thigpen and he should be the guy going forward into next year as well.  
3. Oakland Raiders – Only the Raiders could hold the opposing quarterback to 7 completions and force 4 interceptions and still find a way to lose the game.  They turned those 4 picks into just 6 points.  Nnamdi Asomugha is one bright spot here as he continues to show why he is the best corner in the league.
4. Cincinnati Bengals – This team is still playing hard which is good to see.  Maybe that is enough to save Marvin Lewis from being fired.  Maybe not.
5. Seattle Seahawks – Things look a little brighter as they are expected to get Matt Hasselbeck and Deion Branch back this week.  But what has happened to this defense that was supposed to be one of the league’s best?  They can’t stop anyone.

Top Five Plays of Week 10:

1. The Dolphins complete a flea flicker for a 39 yard TD to Ted Ginn [video]
2. Malcolm Floyd makes a terrific juggling catch along the sideline [video]
3. Tony Gonzalez makes a great TD catch in traffic in the closing seconds [video]
4. DeAngelo Williams spins and runs his way for a 69 yard TD [video]
5. Eddie Royal catches a 93 yard bomb against the Browns [video]

Top Five Fantasy Performers of Week 10:

1. Thomas Jones, NYJ: 26 car, 149 yards, 3 TD
2. Jay Cutler, DEN: 24/42, 447 yards, 3 TD
3. Adrian Peterson, MIN: 30 car, 192 yards, TD
4. Maurice Jones Drew, JAC: 91 total yards, 3 TD
5. Kurt Warner, ARI: 32/42, 328 yards, 3 TD

Top Five Questions I Have:

1. Why do the Chargers continue to play down to the level of their competition?  Despite their change of defensive coordinator, they still have the same problems on the backend of their defense.
2. Does anyone out there still think that Bill Belichek is overrated as a coach?  If you do you are either clueless or have an agenda.
3. Why has the Packers defense regressed so much this year?
4. Why did the Eagles run it both times on critical 3rd and short and 4th and short on Sunday night.  That is not what suits their personnel best.
5. When will the Raiders offense start to look like one that belongs in the NFL?

College Football Bullets

• After an exciting weekend of college football the new BCS standings have been released.  Currently the top five reads Alabama, Texas Tech, Texas, Florida, and Oklahoma.  So at the moment it appears possible that the national championship will feature the Big 12 champion and the SEC champion.  However, what would the BCS be without some potential controversey?  If Texas Tech loses to Oklahoma then there will likely be a three way tie between Texas Tech, Oklahoma, and Texas in the Big 12 South.  How do they settle a three team tiebreaker in that case?  They look at who has the best ranking in the BCS.  What a mess that could be.
• USC sits sixth in the BCS as their strength of schedule continues to kill their title chances.  Pete Carroll continues to complain but arguing about the BCS is about as useless as banging your head against the wall.  I don’t think anyone is going to feel sorry for them losing to Oregon State either.
• What an awful weekend for the Big Ten as it was illustrated that the conference may actually be worse than I originally had thought.  Penn State was upset by a very mediocre Iowa team.  They basically gave the game away by not finishing drives.  Also Illinois managed to lose to Western Michigan.  The futility in this conference is at an alltime high.
• I can’t believe I am commiting to this but I think Florida State will win the ACC Title in a year where the conference is somewhat watered down.  Their offense continues to improve every week behind dual threat QB Christian Ponder.  They would’ve been 8-1 by now if they didn’t fumble the Georgia Tech game away at the end.  They seem to be the most balanced team in the conference.
• I have been saying that one of the big reasons Texas Tech is where they are is because of the incredible play of their offensive line.  Their improved defense is a factor as well but their big boys on the O-line have been the bigger factor.  They showed that in their demolition of Oklahoma State and the stats backed up their play as well.  The Tech offense totaled a mere 629 total yards.  They barely let Graham Harrell get touched as he threw for 456 yards and 6 TD.  They offensive line also continues to let them run the ball effectively.  They ran for 113 yards on Saturday which was the 10 straight time they have passed the century mark on the ground.
• I’m not sure how much longer Greg Robinson can hang on to his job at Syracuse.  It isn’t that they aren’t winning but they are just not competitive right now.  It has to be just a matter of time I believe until a change is made.
• The SEC championship game between Florida and Alabama will be very intriguing because of the contrast of styles.  However, deep down I have to believe that Florida is the best team in the nation right now.  Tim Tebow is playing at a high level right now and they do not appear to have any major weaknesses right now.  The stat to back it up: over the last five games they have beaten their opponents by an average score of 49-11.
• We kept hearing how Tennessee was going to keep playing hard for their departing coach, Phil Fulmer.  So much for all that garbage talk.  They lost to Wyoming on Saturday at home.  That is nothing short of pathetic.
• Give credit to Utah for what was a very impressive win over a good TCU team.  They now sit seventh in the BCS standings and should be a lock to reach a BCS game.  Despite the loss of Urban Meyer, they still have kept that winning culture around this program.  I can see a Utah-Florida State BCS matchup down the road.

Youtube It: Mike Smith Takes a Seat

Chris Drury had a hat trick on Thursday night against the Tampa Bay Lightning including this highlight reel shorthanded goal.  I’ll let the video do the talking.

Me vs. The Spread, College Edition

• Penn State (-8) at Iowa: I think Penn State will be motivated by being at number three in the BCS this week.  They know they need to win impressively from here on out.  They come off a terrific road win over Ohio State and I think they carry that confidence through this game.  Darryl Clark will continue his outstanding year as the offense puts up too many points for Iowa to contend with.  Penn State 34, Iowa 20.
• USC (-22) vs. Cal: USC faces a lot of big spreads because the rest of the Pac 10 is just not that good.  USC tends to cover these types of spreads at home.  Cal is just 1-2 on the road and that road win was against Washington State, probably the worst program in the nation.  Cal’s defense just will not be up to the challenge on Saturday.  USC and Mark Sanchez have scored at least 28 points in their home games.  They also can use their BCS situation as motivation here to make a statement.  USC 37, Cal 13.
• Texas Tech (-3.5) vs. Oklahoma State: It is reasonale to see the Red Raiders falling to an outstanding Oklahoma State team.  They are coming off a big upset of Texas and could be in danger of a letdown.  But I like the Red Raiders to survive this week for a few reasons.  First Mike Leach is really bright and might be the best coach in the nation.  Second, their offensive line has been incredible not letting anyone touch Graham Harrell and establishing a running game.  Third, their improved defense finds ways to get enough stops thanks to their pass rush.  The Big 12 is the best conference in the nation, but I like the Red Raiders to find a way to survive at home.  Texas Tech 39, Oklahoma State 27.
• Alabama (-3.5) at LSU: I think it has been proven how LSU just isn’t an elite team this year and not all of that can be blamed on their poor QB play.  Their defense continues to be mediocre as their pass rush can be nonexistent at times.  Alabama thrives here thanks to their offensive and defensive lines.  They will control the line of scrimmage and pound the Tigers with the running game.  They also have gotten efficient play from QB John Parker Wilson.  Alabama soundly wins here to clinch a berth in the SEC Title game.  Alabama 34, LSU 17.

Last Week: 3-2

Season: 11-9

The Buzz

Let’s preview this weekend’s new releases in theatres.

 

• Soul Men: Everyone knows by now about the passing of Bernie Mac and this was his last on screen performance.  To be honest the trailer left me feeling very disappointed as nothing great should be expected here.  However, I am a Mac fan so I will probably end up seeing this eventually as a way to pay my respects and see him one last time.  People who aren’t fans of his would probably be wise to pass on this one.
• Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa: The success of the first Madagascar movie is undeniable.  It had a $47 million opening weekend and grossed over $190 million.  The reviews so far have been quite good as well indicating that this might even been an upgrade over the original.  Seems to me like it’s a must see for the younger crowd.
• Repo! The Genetic Opera: Here we have a rock opera about an organ-financing program that helps during an epidemic.  And apparently the Repo Man takes care of those who don’t pay or something.  I watched the trailer and the music seems good but the rest appears to be quite bizarre.  The film comes from the producer of Saw and will be sure to have its violence and grittyness.  There is also a role for Paris Hilton here to add to the bizarro level.
• Role Models: Here is one comedy I have been looking forward to seeing and I’m sure I’ve seen the trailer 968 times by now.  Good comedies are hard to find these days but I just get the sense that this is going to be one of the better ones of the year.  Paul Rudd and Sean William Scott appear to be a good comedy tag team.  The reviews have been quite good so far so I would imagine this is one everyone should check out if you are looking for some laughs.
• House: Here is this week’s horror release and I don’t think it should be worth anyone’s time judging from the trailer.  To me it just seems like a knockoff combination of 1408 and Seven.  I’d rather watch the originals than take a risk on this.  It is based on a best selling novel but the cliches will run wild here.  Fans of Michael Madsen might want to check it out but I’ll pass.  I might pop in my Zodiac DVD instead this weekend.
• Boy in the Striped Pajamas: Here is a limited release that has been getting good reviews (71% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes).  It is a powerful family drama that is set in the times of the Holocaust.  After seeing the trailer I am somewhat intrigued.  Drama fans might want to seek this one out in case it turns out to be a gem.

 

Box Office Top 10 Projections:

 

1. Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa – $60 million
2. Role Models – $14 million
3. Soul Men – $10 million
4. High School Musical 3 – $9 million
5. Changeling – $7 million
6. Saw V – $5 million
7. Zack and Miri Make a Porno – $4 million
8. Beverly Hills Chihuahua – $4 million
9. Eagle Eye – $3 million
10. Secret Life of Bees – $3 million

 

NFL Week 9: Five Lists of Five

Top Five Teams of My Power Rankings:

1. Tennessee Titans: Everyone knows about the defense which makes sure they will never be out of a game.  But their offense is better than people think.  They rank 9th in the NFL in points scored.  Chris Johnson is going to be a star.
2. New York Giants: Their passing game has been somewhat out of sync but everything else is clicking.  But their defense continues to play great.  A key for this team’s offense is slot receiver Steve Smith.  He is a terrific route runner.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: Their defense and especially their front seven is out of this world.  But Big Ben is banged up and their offensive line struggles to protect the quarterback.  The Redskins came in with 10 total sacks for the year.  They had 5 sacks on Monday night against the Steelers.  But at least Willie Parker has gotten healthy.
4. Carolina Panthers: They are a dangerous team because of how physical they play.  They showed how dominant their defense can be when they shut down the Saints a couple weeks ago.
5. Philadelphia Eagles: Yes they are making a push and can make a statement in the primetime showdown with the Giants this week.  Their playoff hopes will be determined by the health of their two stars, Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook.

Bottom Five Teams of My Power Rankings:

1. Detroit Lions: It appears that Dan Orlovsky is hurt and now Daunte Culpepper might be the one to try to rescue them from an 0-16 season.  Oh the drama.
2. Oakland Raiders: This team has not been competitive under Tom Cable.  Their effort against the Falcons was historically bad.  Jamarcus Russell was held to 31 yards passing and only one catch was made by a wide receiver.  Go back to Idaho Tom.
3. Kansas City Chiefs: Give them credit for playing hard under Herm Edwards.  It’s not their fault that they have poor talent on the roster.
4. Cincinnati Bengals: They are not as bad as they’ve shown and I think they will win a couple more games.  Cedric Benson sure should be comfortable there will all the other criminals.
5. Seattle Seahawks: I know they have been without Matt Hasselbeck but that’s no excuse for the effort of their defense so far.  I think it’s time to just shut down Matty for the rest of the season.

Top Five Plays of Week 9:

1. Antonio Bryant makes a terrific one handed catch down the sideline [video]
2. Derrick Stanley makes a nice grab on an 80 yard TD [video]
3. Braylon Edwards wrestles the ball away from the DB in the endzone for 6 [video]
4. Bernard Berrian makes the grab and spins his way for a 50 yard TD [video]
5. Clifton Smith returns a kickoff 97 yards for a TD to spark Tampa’s comeback from a 24-3 deficit against the Chiefs [video]

Top Five Fantasy Performers of Week 9:

1. Kurt Warner, ARI: 23-34, 342 yards, 2 TD
2. Chris Johnson, TEN: 161 total yards, TD
3. Tyler Thigpen, KC: 223 total yards, 2 TD
4. Peyton Manning, IND: 21-29, 254 yards, 2 TD
5. Derrick Mason, BAL: 9 rec, 136 yards, TD

Top Five Questions I Have:

1. How good are the Dolphins?  I think they’ll be a playoff team.  Just look at their schedule.
2. Can Tony Romo solve all of Dallas’ problems?  Not if they don’t start to stop the run.
3. How can the Bills be an elite team if their margin for error is so slim?
4. Are the Packers the best .500 team in the league?
5. Is Philly not the biggest threat to the Giants in the NFC East?